Winding up the driveway through the pine wood to this very private and secluded property you will not fail to be struck by how extensive the grounds are - infinitely more substantial than the capacity of the house would indicate. Landscaped and planned with care, the almost five acres of land that surrounds Ca'n Coll composes a horticultural treasure trove of indigenous flowers, bushes, shrubs and trees.

To one side sits a delightful 'secret garden' of classical statues, palms and flourishing ferns, a small, well-tended lawned area lies just below the pool, an eclectic collection of fruit trees just beyond.

From its elevated position the long, arched pool terrace permits far reaching rural views across the island heartland towards Sencelles, one of those quintessential Mallorcan towns whose acquaintance with the fast pace of modern life is, at best, tenuous.

From the extensively equipped kitchen an arch of mellow, Santanyi stone leads through to a spacious dining area furnished with a huge wooden table.

The fine fireplace in the homely and comfortable sitting room makes a natural focal point. Guests regularly tell us that this is an easy house in which to relax, a fact undoubtedly due to the care and attention invested by Angela, one of the most hospitable and welcoming of all our Mallorcan house owners.

A minimarket, bakery, fishmonger, pharmacy, two local cafes and a restaurant listed in the Michelin guide can all be found in Sencelles - although you are unlikely to encounter many fellow tourists. Indeed, a stroll through this sleepy settlement at siesta time breathes new life into the clichéd description 'off the beaten track'!

For a little more activity and even more local colour the market town of Inca (a 15 minute drive) is famous for producing a vast range of leather goods and has some excellent 'cellars' (local restaurants) hidden behind unpretentious façades. Cosmopolitan Palma and the northern coast at Pollença are no more than 30 minutes away and easily reached via a variety of routes.